Fuel Smarts

Oregon Looks Into Written CDL Pre-Trip Tests

The Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles is looking into using a written or computerized exam to determine CDL pre-trip inspection skills, rather than the physical tests that are currently being used.

Several other states are already using the process that allows for better use of the examiner’s time.According to Bob Russell, Director of Government Affairs for the Oregon Trucking Association, a pilot group of 200 drivers is currently using the written pre-trip tests this month. After analyzing the results of a comparison between the effectiveness of the written tests and hands-on version, a task force will issue a recommendation to the DMV in October.Russell added that even if the change does take effect, the airbrake portion of the pre-trip inspection tests will remain hands-on, with the rest of the test being written.